UT Tyler Office of Marketing and Communications

Alzheimer's Alliance Hosts Virtual Dementia Tour for Community

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April 14, 2016

Media Contact:  Hannah Buchanan
Editor/Writer–Strategic Communications & Media Relations
Marketing and Communications
The University of Texas at Tyler
903.539.7196 (cell)

Editor's Note: This press release is presented on behalf of the Alzheimer's Alliance of Smith County.

The Alzheimer's Alliance of Smith County will be hosting a virtual dementia tour on Saturday, April 16. The tour will be led by Kathleen Wilson, MSN, RN, a clinical nursing instructor at The University of Texas at Tyler.

Designed by geriatric specialist P.K. Breville in 1997, the tour is an experiential tool for medical professionals, families, and caregivers to learn firsthand the day-to-day challenges for persons with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

"I went through the tour myself after my mother was diagnosed," said Wilson, who then became a certified tour facilitator. "I was in tears because I finally understood her experience, and it made it simpler for me to communicate and connect with her. I want others to see how they can help their loved ones, and I make it available to student nurses throughout East Texas so they can better care for their patients."

During the tour, participants are outfitted with clothing and accessories designed to simulate the sensory and mobility experience of persons with dementia. They are assigned a set of simple tasks such as folding clothes, setting the table, or counting change while being evaluated by Wilson. After the tour, the participant goes through a debrief session and can meet with Alliance staff to learn more about supporting a person with the disease.

"It's the interactive, hands-on approach that gives this experience such impact," said Leslie Lindsey, community outreach coordinator for the Alzheimer's Alliance of Smith County. "With this new degree of empathy many have after the tour, it helps us break down stigmas we have about those with dementia and ultimately provide better care."

The tour will be held at Meadow Lake Senior Living, 16044 County Road 165 in Tyler, beginning at 9 a.m. To register, contact the Alzheimer's Alliance at (903) 509-8323.

About the Alzheimer's Alliance of Smith County

Founded in 1982, the Alzheimer's Alliance of Smith County is a local nonprofit organization committed to walking alongside all of those affected by Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Our services include personal consultations, education and awareness, caregiver support and resources, and brain health advocacy in Smith County.